diff --git a/templates/haproxy_head.erb b/templates/haproxy_head.erb
index b845138..bab56bf 100644
--- a/templates/haproxy_head.erb
+++ b/templates/haproxy_head.erb
@@ -56,5 +56,15 @@ defaults
     timeout check           <%= @hy_timeout_check %>
     maxconn                 <%= @hy_maxconn %>
 
+listen stats
+    bind 127.0.0.1:8404  # Bind to localhost if only local access is needed
+    mode http
+    stats enable
+    stats uri /haproxy?stats
+    stats realm Strictly\ Private
+    stats auth local_admin:jSAVu62MV+kr+>R.  # Use a strong password
+    stats refresh 30s
+    stats admin if TRUE  # Allow admin actions if logged in
+
 ### custom rules below ###